The Action Alliance (AA) governorship candidate in Oyo State, Comrade Sikiru Bayo Titilola-Sodo, has commended the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies for the successful rescue of 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members abducted in Imo State.
The prospective corps members were reportedly abducted on 1 October, 2026, and were later rescued at Amakohia Ubi Village following sustained search-and-rescue operations. They were subsequently taken for medical assessment and necessary care.
Titilola-Sodo also appreciated the Federal Government and Imo State Government, led by Governor Hope Uzodimma, for their roles in the response to the incident.
‘I sincerely commend the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, the DSS and all other security agencies involved in the operation. Their co-ordinated efforts demonstrate the importance of inter-agency co-operation in protecting lives’, he said.
The AA’s candidate expressed solidarity with the families of the rescued youth, acknowledging the anxiety and uncertainty that they endured during the period of the abduction.
He also commended the Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, for his concern and engagement with representatives of the affected families during the crisis.
Titilola-Sodo congratulated the rescued prospective corps members and urged them to prioritise their health and well-being as they recover from the traumatic experience.
He, however, called on security agencies to muster efforts in identifying, arresting and prosecuting those responsible for the abduction.
‘The safe rescue of these young Nigerians is welcome news, but it should also remind us that more must be done to protect citizens travelling across the country. Security must remain a collective responsibility, supported by intelligence, inter-agency co-operation and timely response’, he said.
He further urged Nigerians to support security agencies with credible information and avoid spreading unverified reports that could cause unnecessary panic.
Titilola-Sodo concluded by expressing gratitude to the security personnel, government authorities, the Olubadan and, particularly, the families and friends of the victims for their resilience and prayers throughout the ordeal.
